Tuesday, October 20, 2009

1 in 7 Belgians live in poverty

From Expacta, some statistics on the levels of poverty in Belgium. 15 percent of the Belgium population in poverty translates to 1 in 7 people.

According to figures from the Federal Service Economy, just over 15% of the Belgian population live in poverty.

Between 2004 and 2007 the number of Belgians living under the poverty line stabilised. Since 2007 the number of poor Belgians has most likely grown.

Researchers are quick to point out that the study was conducted before the beginning of the economic crisis. Based on indicative figures for 2008, 21% of Belgians were having a difficult time making ends meet.

According to the report about 11% of people in Flanders were living below the poverty line between 2004 and 2007. Wallonia had 8% more during that period.

Apart from regional differences, there are also sociological differences. Women have more chance of falling into the poverty trap than men (16% for men compared to 14% of women).